1 John 4:19-20
We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 1 John 4:19-20 (NIV)
Sports rivalries can inspire strong feelings. I’ve been a St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan since 1964. Their archrivals are the Chicago Cubs. It’s an intense rivalry and one of the oldest in baseball dating back to 1885. I don’t really “hate” the Cubs, but they sure are frustrating at times, especially when they beat the Cards! Unfortunately, confrontations between fans of sports rivals have led to serious injuries and even death. Is this compatible with living a faithful Christian life?
Jesus taught us that the greatest commandments are to love God and love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). The Greek word used in this passage is “agape.” Although it is translated as love in most English bibles, agape doesn’t mean a physical or emotional love. Agape love involves faithfulness, commitment, and an act of the will. It is distinguished from the other types of love by its lofty moral nature and strong character. A better translation agape might be caring and empathy.
This great Sunday School song sure sums up how to share God’s love in our lives.
This little Light of mine, I’m gonna to let it shine.
Jesus gave this light to me, I’m gonna to let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel – NO, I’m gonna to let it shine.
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna to let it shine.
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.
Loving God and hating others is incompatible with Jesus’ teachings. Letting the Holy Spirit work through me to share God’s love gives me a warm feeling. Sometimes, strong emotions can pull me away from that path. When that happens, I just need to take a deep breath and remember to let the light of Jesus shine through me.
Questions for Reflection:
- How does your light shine?
- Do you have a strategy to brighten that light when it dims?
Prayer:
Hey God, You’re the best. Sorry I don’t always live up to your expectations. I may need some help to keep your Son’s light shining through me. Knowing of Your unending love sure does help. Amen.
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